Understanding peripheral nerve compression syndrome

 Have you ever woken up to a severe tingling sensation in your hands and thought you might have slept over it? But slowly the tingling sensation turns into numbness, weakness and even pain. This could be a peripheral nerve compression syndrome.

Peripheral nerve compression syndrome is a condition in which the nerve is compressed affecting the normal functionality. The peripheral nerves are responsible for the movement, sensation, and reflexes. It can affect any part of the body but is more common in the wrists, elbows and lower back. It is divide into other conditions such as :

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Cubital tunnel syndrome
• Sciatica nerve compression
• Thoracic outlet syndrome

By understanding and being aware of the causes of peripheral nerve compression syndrome you can easily prevent it. they are :

• Repetitive movements
• Poor posture
• Trauma or injury
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• arthritis
• thyroid conditions
• pregnancy 

when a peripheral nerve is compressed it disrupts the normal transmission of electrical signals which happens between the brain and the affected limbs. If the compression is not treated on time it can lead to permanent nerve damage and even lose its functionality.  Here are some tips on preventing it.

• Maintain a good posture
• Take break between works
• practice stretching and strength training
• use ergonomic workspaces for proper posture 
• maintain a healthy weight

Peripheral nerve compression syndrome may start as something small but can cause  a ruckus if not treated on time. If you’re experiencing severe tingling sensation, pain and weakness, consult a neurologist as soon as possible.